GIS-based rapid population assessment tool

ABSTRACT

Method of assessing population with a spatially-stratified random sample comprising creating a grid on a study area, the grid being defined by target grid points to form grid cell, dividing each grid cell into a series of sub-grid cells, each of the series of sub-grid cells being identified from left to right and bottom to top within each of the grid cells, identifying and listing each sub-grid cell that intersects the study area, the list of sub-grid cells being sequences in the same order as the grid cells and the sub-grid cells, dividing the sub-grid list into sections, each of the sections being configured to have substantially equal numbers of sub-grid cells, and the number of sections being equal to the number of targeted grid points, and selecting a random sub-grid cell from each section of sub-grid cells to obtain the spatially-stratified random sample.

REFERENCE TO PENDING PRIOR PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application also claims benefit of pending prior U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/449,283, filed Feb. 21, 2003by Wei Du for CENSUSVIEW: A GIS BASED SYSTEM FOR RAPID POPULATIONASSESSMENT IN CHES (Attomey's Docket No. HDM-4 PROV).

1 OVERVIEW (SEE FIG. 1)

[0002] The product contains nine categories of core functionality. Eachof the following categories comprises the underlying structure of therapid population assessment tool:

[0003] Project Management

[0004] Study Boundary Delineation

[0005] Spatially Stratified Sampling

[0006] Population Estimation

[0007] GIS and Mapping Tools

[0008] GPS Communication

[0009] Analysis Tools

[0010] GIS Interoperability and Web Service Integration

[0011] Worldwide Population Portal Website

[0012] 2 Project Management (See FIG. 2)

[0013] Projects are used to control sessions and manage project relateddocuments when using the rapid population assessment tool. The projectmanagement engine contains functionality for users to manageproject-related information and data files. Outlined below are therequired individual functions that make up the project managementengine.

[0014] 2.1 Create New Project

[0015] This function creates a new population estimation project. Thefollowing information is used to define a project:

[0016] Project Name

[0017] Project Description

[0018] Creator

[0019] Date Created

[0020] Organization

[0021] Data Projection

[0022] Project Notes (arbitrary text entered by the user at any time)

[0023] The Project Management engine can also incorporate other“metadata” information specific to a particular session.

[0024] 2.2 Edit Existing Project

[0025] The application allows users to edit project information. Thisfunction gives users the ability to alter any of the seven functionlisted in section 2.1 for each saved project.

[0026] 2.3 Delete Existing Project

[0027] The application allows users to delete an existing Project. Thesystem will prompt a warning message to user before the project isremoved from the system. If the targeted project is a currently openedproject, the system will clear all filed pertaining to the specificproject.

[0028] 2.4 Open Existing Project

[0029] The application allows users to open an existing Project.Individual projects should be opened after launching the application foruse.

[0030] 2.5 Save Project, Associated Settings, and Data Files

[0031] Projects are saved to the local file system on the users'computer. The application saves individual components that are Projectspecific. The ability to store the following is included:

[0032] Project definitions: name, description, creator name, date lastupdated, project directory

[0033] Boundary files (including exclusive areas) in shapefile, ASCII,or NMEA file formats

[0034] Reference point files as shapefile, ASCII, or NMEA

[0035] Sampling location files as shapefile, ASCII, or NMEA

[0036] Survey location files as shapefile, ASCII, or NMEA

[0037] Survey forms as HTML, Excel, or PDF file formats

[0038] Sampling settings

[0039] Survey data for individual study areas

[0040] Population estimation results

[0041] Last saved position and status. When the project is re-opened,its previous status will be restored to system.

[0042] 2.6 View Project Summary Information

[0043] This function allows users to view all project information,including settings and associated data files.

[0044] 2.7 Export Project Information

[0045] Each component of a specific project is exportable to fileformats outlined in section 2.5.

[0046] 2.8 Import Project Information

[0047] Each component of the project is importable from file formatsoutlined in section 2.5.

[0048] 2.9 Print Project Information

[0049] This function allows users to print a Project's information in awell-designed report format.

[0050] 2.10 General Undo/Redo

[0051] Each major function in the application is associated with anUndo/Redo function. The user is able to sequentially restore previousactions executed during the program. The application allows the usermultiple levels of Undo/Redo for specific functions.

[0052] 2.11 Re-Projection

[0053] Any spatial datasets used by the application have the ability tobe re-projected for display and visualization of the data. Theapplication allows users to display data in different acceptedprojections. This feature is necessary for accurate overlays of spatialdata. The application contains standard coordinate systems for users tochoose from for re-projecting, taking into consideration commonly usedformats throughout the world.

[0054] 2.12 The User Map

[0055] The User Map is the general map display interface where spatialdata is viewed by users and edited, where applicable. Individualrequirements and functions relating to the User Map are outlined infurther detail in section 6. When opened, each project will display itsspatial layers and last extent according to the user.

[0056] 2.13 Data Worksheet

[0057] The Data Worksheet is used for editing tabular data forindividual projects. Features of the Data Worksheet include:

[0058] Direct data entry (and also includes “intelligent” features suchas combo/drop-down boxes, checkboxes, pre-selected data).

[0059] Cut/copy/paste functions using standard Ctrl-X, Ctrl-C, andCtrl-V keyboard shortcuts.

[0060] Change data view, by moving columns. Also includes hiding columnsand similar features.

[0061] Ability to sort data by fields and/or rows

[0062] Reorder data. The application allows users to move a rows up ordown from the worksheet view.

[0063] 3 Boundary Delineation (See FIG. 3)

[0064] The boundary delineation functionality provides comprehensivetools for users to define study area boundaries, exclusive areas, andreference points. The product allows these spatial components to bedownloaded from GPS devices, entered manually using spatial coordinates,or be digitized on screen by user. Information pertaining specificallyto GPS communication functions is described in Section 8.

[0065] 3.1 Load Boundary Data from GPS

[0066] The application is able to load data directly from compatible GPSunits. Functions include:

[0067] Loading GPS data directly from GPS unit as full Study BoundaryArea or as an Excluded Area

[0068] Loading GPS data directly from GPS unit as a subset of a fullStudy Area or Excluded Area. Subsets of full boundaries must beindicated in some way (preferably color-coded). The application is alsobe able to connect multiple parts to create a single Study Boundary orExcluded Area.

[0069] The boundary data downloaded from GPS units can be displayed inthe User Map.

[0070] 3.2 Load Boundary Data from GPS/GIS Files

[0071] For data gathered using GPS units that are not compatible withdirect connect functionality, data files are supported. The applicationis able to incorporate and use GPS data files for boundary creation anddisplay, meeting the requirements listed in Section 3.1.

[0072] 3.3 Edit Boundary Data on Worksheet

[0073] Vertices of all boundary polygons are editable using theapplication's data worksheet. Functionality specific to boundariesshould include the ability to load boundary data directly from a GPSdevice or associated GPS format file.

[0074] 3.4 Key-in Boundary Points Into Worksheet

[0075] For users without a GPS device or without a GPS connection, theapplication provides the flexibility to enter boundary data via thekeyboard for display in the User Map.

[0076] 3.5 On-Screen Digitizing of Study Area Boundaries

[0077] The application allows users to create and edit boundaries usingon-screen digitizing methods. This function also allows users to loadsatellite imagery for viewing in the User Map to perform the onscreenassessments. Functions provided include:

[0078] The ability to load georeferenced satellite imagery if availableto assist with digitizing tasks.

[0079] Create boundaries and exclusive areas by on-screen digitizing.

[0080] 3.6 Create Study Area, Sub-Areas, and Excluded Areas

[0081] Study Areas, Sub Areas, and Excluded Areas are able to be createdusing the boundary creation methods described above. We define the term“SubArea” to mean areas within a delineated Study Area from a singleproject. The application accommodates multiple Sub Areas and ExcludedAreas. Excluded Areas are regions within a given Study Area designatedby the user that are removed for sampling purposes, such as areasrepresenting lakes within a given Study Area.

[0082] 3.7 Export Boundary Data File

[0083] The application allows users to export boundaries into differentfile formats. Formats include the following:

[0084] Shapefile

[0085] ASCII

[0086] NMEA

[0087] GML

[0088] 3.8 Study Area Analysis

[0089] The application allows users to compute the total area of StudyArea polygons. The application may perform other GIS-related analysis onstudy areas as needed or requested. Analysis results may be saved asattributes for the particular area.

[0090] 3.9 Load/Edit/Save Reference Points

[0091] Reference points allow users to create or show spatiallyimportant areas as points in the User Map. These points incorporate GISfunctionality similar to Study Areas, where applicable. This includesthe ability to name specific reference points and store relatedattribute information.

[0092] 3.10 Spatial Editing Functionality

[0093] Study Areas, Sub-Areas, reference points, and other spatialobjects are editable on-screen using the User Map and associated GISfunctions. Specific functions include:

[0094] 3.10.1 Select spatial objects for editing

[0095] This function allows users to select a spatial object forediting. The spatial object includes boundary polygons, exclusiveboundaries, polygon vertices, reference points, boundary buffers, subsampling areas, and other spatial objects. The spatial objects on mapcan be selected in two ways: (a) by a single map click, and (b) by auser-defined polygon. Where possible, the user should be able to selectmore than one object at a time.

[0096] 3.10.2 Add/Delete Vertices of Polygon Objects

[0097] This function allows users to add or delete vertices of a polygonobject.

[0098] 3.10.3 Move Vertices of Polygon Objects

[0099] This function allows users to move a selected vertex of a polygonobject

[0100] 3.10.4 Create a Shortcut Between Two Selected Vertices

[0101] This function allows users to simplify an arc by creating astraight line between two selected vertices of an existing polygonobject.

[0102] 3.10.5 Snap Selected End Nodes Together

[0103] This function allows user to select two nodes (end points on anyarc) and combine them into a single node. This node should correspond toone of the selected nodes (and should be consistently applied). The endnodes come from the same arc, which will create a single polygon. Theend nodes may come from different line objects, which will create asingle line.

[0104] 3.10.6 Delete a Selected Spatial Object

[0105] This function allows user to delete any selected spatial object(points, lines, polygons, and vertices) within the User Map.

[0106] 3.10.7 Move a Selected Spatial Object

[0107] Spatial objects are movable by changing their position within theUser Map. For objects other than points, moving should not changeoriginal shape.

[0108] 4 Spatially Stratified Sampling (See FIG. 4)

[0109] The spatially stratified sampling functionality provides thefoundation for area and point-based population estimation. A uniquespatially stratified sampling methodology has been created.

[0110] Spatially stratified sampling methods can be classified as:

[0111] Area-Based Sampling

[0112] Systematic

[0113] Random

[0114] Point-Based Sampling

[0115] Systematic

[0116] Random

[0117] Area-based sampling methodology is used by the Quadrat PopulationEstimation technique. Point-based sampling method is utilized by theT-Square and Point Quarter Population Estimation techniques.

[0118] 4.1 Sampling Settings

[0119] The software allows users to create comprehensive samplingschemes. Each Study Area has a single sampling scheme associated withit. In a project with more than one Study Area (sub-areas), each mayhave a distinct sampling scheme.

[0120] The procedure for sampling setting includes the following steps:

[0121] 1) Select one or more Study Areas for sampling

[0122] 2) Select a sampling method: Quadrat, T-Square, or Point-Quartermethods (others possible)

[0123] 3) Define sampling size. For point-based estimation methods thisis simply the number of points to be generated. For area-basedestimations, the width and length of each sampling area must be defined.There may be additional methods required in the future (such astransect-based methodologies).

[0124] 4) Select a sampling type: systematic or random

[0125] 4.2 Define Boundary Buffer

[0126] In order to ensure usability of all sampling locations, thesystem allows users to create a buffer in which no sampling locationswill be located. If a buffer is created, all sampling operations will berestricted to areas in the polygon not covered by the buffer.

[0127] For Study Area boundaries, the buffer shall be inside the chosenpolygon.

[0128] For excluded areas, the buffer shall be located outside the area,surrounding it.

[0129] 4.3 Define Sub Sampling Areas for Multiple Frequency Sampling

[0130] This function allows users to define sub-sampling areas byuser-defined polygons within a given Study Area. Currently there is athree sub-area limit in the prototype; however, the number of sub-areasmay be unlimited.

[0131] 4.4 Sampling Method Setting and Parameter Management

[0132] Meaningful defaults are given for each Sampling Method, wherepossible.

[0133] For advanced users, the system also provides tools forcomprehensive sampling method setting, including the ability to alterdetailed sampling algorithms (such computation iteration), whereapplicable.

[0134] 4.5 Define the Fields for Data Collection

[0135] The system allows users to define fields (column names within thedata worksheet) for data collection. To simplify this process, two typesof fields are defined in the system: 1) a NUMBER type field and 2) aTEXT type field. The system also provides some basic fields for use bydefault.

[0136] 4.6 Execute the Spatial Sampling

[0137] The system generates sampling locations for the user. Theirlocation depends on the sampling parameters chosen. Sampling locationsand identifying labels are displayed as a layer on the User Map.

[0138] 4.7 Sampling Result Management

[0139] The system is able to export results (sample locations) into anyof the following formats:

[0140] Shapefile

[0141] ACSII

[0142] NMEA

[0143] GML

[0144] The system also is able to upload sampling outputs to a connectedGPS unit. The system divides the total sampling scheme results intoparts for upload to multiple GPS units. This allows for collaborativedivision of survey points among multi-member teams.

[0145] 4.8 Create the Survey Form

[0146] The system is able to create a field survey form for data entryin HTML, Excel, or PDF formats after the sampling scheme is executed.The survey form provides sampling location information, includingdirections from reference points to each sample location, and blanktables for data recording. The system also allows users the ability toprint the generated forms for use out in the field.

[0147] The system is able to select sub-sets for the creation of surveyforms. This enables a project coordinator to send multiple workers intothe field to collect data for specific locations.

[0148] 4.9 Sampling Scheme Management

[0149] The application is able to manage each Sampling Scheme created bythe user. A Sampling Scheme includes the following information:

[0150] Sampling-specific parameters (number of points, confidenceinterval, etc.)

[0151] Survey fields to be collected

[0152] Estimation model used

[0153] Management of Sampling Schemes include the following functions:

[0154] Save to file under a name prescribed by the user.

[0155] Load from file with ability to browse associated directories.

[0156] The system may include pre-defined Sampling Schemes for the userto load. These pre-set schemes may be chosen by the user to simplifyprocedures.

[0157] 5 Population Estimation (See FIG. 5)

[0158] 5.1 Input Field Survey Data for Population Estimation

[0159] Data collection at each of the generated Sampling Locations isnecessary for population estimation. The collected data must be input tothe program in one of the following ways:

[0160] Input by tabular worksheet. This function supports conversionfrom paper surveys.

[0161] Individual data entries through an input format. Here, theapplication allows users to navigate the data using “next” and “back”functions.

[0162] Import of structured text (CSV or potentially GML) file.

[0163] Import of GIS data file (Shapefile).

[0164] On-screen input using User Map (see examples below).

[0165] All data input to the application is editable using a DataWorksheet (2.13).

[0166] 5.2 Select Data Fields for Population Estimation

[0167] Where the Project contains survey data in multiple fields, theuser is able to select a limited number of fields to use for eachestimation calculation.

[0168] 5.3 On-Screen Data Collection Functionality Examples

[0169] The application provides effective procedures for users toperform tasks at different sampling locations, navigate through surveypoints, generate distance measurements, and store them in associateddata tables automatically.

[0170] 5.3.1 On-Screen Survey for T-Square Method (See FIG. 6)

[0171] This function automatically zooms to a selected sampling pointand highlight it. The system allows users to collect two map points(such as identifiable dwellings) for the distance computation. After thefirst point is chosen, the system automatically draws reference lines tohelp user to determine the second map point with an appropriate angle.

[0172] 5.3.2 On-Screen Survey for Point Quarter Method (See FIG. 7)

[0173] This function automatically zooms to a selected sampling pointand highlight it. Two reference lines are drawn at the sampling point torepresent four quads for map point determination. The system allowsusers to collect four map points for distance computation. Based onthese reference lines, users can collect one map point (the nearesthousing unit) from each quad. The system automatically computes thedistance between the map points and the sampling point, and storeresults in the data table.

[0174] 5.3.3 On-Screen Survey for Quadrat Method (See FIG. 8)

[0175] This function automatically zooms to currently selected samplingquad and highlight it. Based on satellite imagery, user will determinehow many housing units are within the sampling quad area, entering thisnumber into the system.

[0176] 5.3.4 Enter Average Number of People Per Housing Unit (Optional)

[0177] When actual population data for the targeted housing units is notavailable, users can input the average number of people per housing unitfrom historic data or other sources to perform the populationcomputation. This function allows users to complete rapid populationestimation for a given area when minimal data is available.

[0178] 5.4 Execute the Population Computation

[0179] Based on user-defined data or data collected from a Study Area,the population computation can be executed. The system will display thesampling scheme summary and population results in a report format onscreen. The report is also viewable in HTML and/or PDF formats.

[0180] 6 User Map and GIS Functionality (See FIG. 9)

[0181] The application provides the basic GIS-related tools needed tomap and analyze the spatial data used by the application.

[0182] 6.1 Base Data

[0183] The application includes a number of base data layers for usersto display. Some data layers will be automatically added to a User Mapwhen an existing project is opened or new one is created. Currently, adata layer depicting countries of the world is the only data sourceincluded. The ability to include additional standard data layers is alsoincluded.

[0184] 6.2 Layer Management

[0185] Layer management functionality includes:

[0186] Add a Layer, including both vector and raster-based datasets.Supported vector GIS formats include the following:

[0187] ESRI Shapefile

[0188] OGC WFS format (GML)

[0189] Layer visibility and scale control: Methods exist within theapplication to allow for turning on and off the visibility of specifieddata layers. Also, the scale at which specific data layers appear withinthe User Map should be controllable. Functions shall also exist toremove one or more layers from the User Map view.

[0190] 6.3 Map Navigation

[0191] General navigation around the User Map includes these common GISfunctions:

[0192] Zoom In by map click and drag box

[0193] Zoom Out by map click (and a drag box)

[0194] Gazetteer: Zoom by place name, depending on place names/datalayers available. The Gazetteer can be used even if the vector Layer isnot actually on the current Map.

[0195] Zoom to a defined project object (such as boundary extent)

[0196] Pan/Re-center

[0197] Move back to a previously defined map position (at least 20 mappositions should be stored and re-cycled)

[0198] Move forward to a previously defined map position

[0199] 6.4 Thematic Mapping

[0200] The system allows users to define the following parameters forvector-based data layers:

[0201] Custom attribute and color ramp setting

[0202] Custom map style and pattern setting

[0203] Labeling by attributes

[0204] On-the-fly custom points (graphics) to be drawn on the on UserMap

[0205] Map legend displaying all current data layers and/or symbology

[0206] 6.5 Contour Map Generation

[0207] This function is designed to create a contour map based on pointdata (Z values). This function can be used to create population densitymaps based on point data collected from a study area.

[0208] 6.6 Print and Export Map

[0209] Functionality includes:

[0210] Print Map at any scale

[0211] Export map to different raster formats: png, jpg, and gif

[0212] Export individual vector data layers to ESRI shapefiles, whereverapplicable.

[0213] 6.7 Save Map Setting and View

[0214] This function allows user to save current map setting (datalayers used and their individual settings, including current extent andposition on the User Map).

[0215] 6.8 Load Existing Map

[0216] The user is able to load an existing map including its associateddata layers to the User Map.

[0217] 6.9 Info Tools

[0218] Other GIS-based tools implemented in the User Map include, butare not limited to:

[0219] Info Tool: display attribute information for selected spatialobjects

[0220] Index Map: display current map extent on a world map

[0221] Map Reader (must attempt Section 508 compatibility at the mappinglevel)

[0222] 7 GPS Communication (FIG. 10)

[0223] GPS communication functionality encompasses two aspects:

[0224] Direct Communication: For GPS devices with open specificationsfor application protocol, the product will communicate directly with thedevice for the upload and download of waypoint and/or route (line,polygon) data. At this time, manufacturers supporting this methodinclude Garmin, Magellan, and Lowrance. More may be added as identified.

[0225] File-Based Communication: For GPS devices without openspecification for application protocol, the product will rely on acommon file interface to communicate with the devices. File interfacewill depend on the unit/manufacturer, but will resemble the NMEAstandard format.

[0226] GPS manufacturers known to operate using this method includeTrimble.

[0227] 8 Analytical Tools (FIG. 11)

[0228] When the population estimation is performed, many comprehensiveanalyses can be applied. Analyses can currently be grouped into fivemajor areas. Listed below are the application's general requirements.Each analysis is available in three forms:

[0229] Tabular: This functions as the compiled Data Worksheet, but in aread-only mode.

[0230] Graphical: Charts and/or graphs are generated.

[0231] Report: Analyses are printable and may include informationinterpreting the results. Reports are created in HTML or PDF formattedtext.

[0232] 8.1 Population Profile Builder

[0233] This function allows users to build epidemiological, demographic,and social & economic profiles for resulting population. Users are ableto define a profile type, profile name, and associated ratio or rate foreach population interval. The ability to add/remove/edit profiles fromthe system is also incorporated.

[0234] 8.2 Resource Allocation Analysis

[0235] This function allows users to analyze itemized resource needs forrelief activities by defining quantities and costs of relief suppliesand apply them to a specific Study Area.

[0236] 8.3 Epidemiological Analysis

[0237] This function allows users to analyze epidemiological impacts forthe displaced population, and predict outcomes.

[0238] 8.4 Demographic Analysis

[0239] This function allows users to analyze demographic patterns forthe population within a Study Area and predict changes of demographiccomposition.

[0240] 8.5 Social and Economic Analysis

[0241] This function allows users to analyze social and economic impactsfor the specific population and predict changes in these attributes.

[0242] 9 GIS Interoperability and Web Service Integration (See FIG. 12)

[0243] The application is able to utilize GIS data for the User Mapthrough various web services specifications, including the requiredparts of the WMS (web mapping service) client specification. No dataserving is required by this application, except to upload data andresults to a future web page design. The application is designed withconnectivity to and from remote sources in mind.

[0244] 10 Worldwide Population Web Portal (See FIG. 12)

[0245] The goal of the worldwide population web portal is to promoteworld communities to exchange and share population information,supporting efforts for humanitarian relief activities. In general, theweb portal includes:

[0246] Displays worldwide events for population studies

[0247] Refugee and humanitarian relief news

[0248] Platform for population data exchange

[0249] Resources and tools for humanitarian emergency planning andresponses

[0250] Web hosting infrastructure and capabilities

[0251] 11

[0252] Technologic Summary of Methodologies in CensusView™

[0253] CensusView™ is a powerful rapid population assessment system. Thesystem uniquely integrates geographic information system (GIS) andglobal positioning system (GPS), remotely sensed imagery (includingsatellite imagery), advanced population estimation research, andspatially stratified sampling methodologies for rapid populationassessment. The system can significantly increase productivity andaccuracy of field population assessment, reduce field population surveyrisk during complex humanitarian emergencies (CHEs), and help in makingeffective decisions on relief efforts. The system is the first tool thatstandardizes population estimation procedures crossing internationalboundaries, and that integrates world-wide geospatial information withpopulation estimation through interoperable web services crossingmultiple geospatial data platforms, international boundaries, andworld-wide relief organizations.

[0254] Technical Highlights:

[0255] Advanced GIS object model and multiple GIS package integrationcapabilities

[0256] Most comprehensive population estimation methods based on realworld experience

[0257] Multiple spatial sampling models, covering area-based andpoint-based sampling methodologies

[0258] Multiple-area samplings with different sampling frequencies

[0259] Reduction of unusable sampling points or quads near specifiedpopulation area boundaries

[0260] Multiple population estimation methodology: quadrat, t-square,and point quarter methods

[0261] Effective PDA and Desktop Software Communication and integration

[0262] CensusView™ can assist CHE specialists with the followingfunctions rapidly and effectively:

[0263] Investigate disease outbreaks and reduce infectious diseasetransmission

[0264] Identify vulnerable populations and tailor programs to meetpopulation specific needs

[0265] Calculate rates of disease in surveillance systems to directprograms

[0266] Assess the availability of water, fuel, and other resources

[0267] Assess the population's accessibility to health, sanitation, andother services

[0268] See FIG. 13

[0269] A. Spatially Stratified Random Sampling Algorithm (See FIG. 14)

[0270] 1. The novel spatially-random stratified-sampling methodology hasthe ability to simulate complex boundary conditions in the field,including

[0271] a. Develops boundary “inner buffer polygons” to avoid creatingunusable sampling points

[0272] b. Generates “exclusive area polygons”, to define unwanted areasfor sampling within study area polygons

[0273] c. Generates “cluster boundary polygons” for different frequencysamplings, to enable complex population cluster sampling.

[0274] The methodology ensures that the systems' random sampling has thefollowing characteristics:

[0275] the random sampling locations are spatially stratified, ensuringthat the sampling location geographically represents the study areas,and the spatial bias of randomness is minimized, ensuring that thedesignated area within the study area boundary has equal probability forrandom sampling

[0276] The spatially-stratified random-sampling methodology isimplemented by the following procedure:

[0277] 1. Create a systematic grid, containing exact number of targetgrid points within the study area. An example grid layout is shown inFIG. 15.

[0278] 2. Systematically divide each grid cell into an infinite numberof very fine sub-grid cells (for example, 1,000×1,000=1,000,000 cells).For each grid cell, sub-grid cells are created from the left to rightand from the bottom to top. Higher numbers of fine grid cells helps toensure that any given cell within the study area has an equalpossibility for receiving a random sampling.

[0279] 3. Assess and list all sub-grids that intersect the study area.The list of intersected cells has the same sequence as when the grid andsub-grid cells were created.

[0280] 4. Divide the sub-grid list into a number of sections. Eachsection contains equal numbers or near equal numbers of sub-grid cells.The total number of sections is equal to the exact number of targetedsampling locations.

[0281] 5. Randomly select a sub-grid cell from each section (group) ofsub-grid cells defined above.

[0282] 6. This method is computationally intensive. An optimalcomputation procedure is developed in Java to achieve the computationgoal with very good performance.

[0283] B. The Most Comprehensive Population Estimation MethodologyIntegration (See FIG. 16)

[0284] Traditionally, population estimation under complex humanitarianemergencies is carried out by using a manual procedure from datacollection to population computation. There is no such tool that iscapable of standardizing the procedure, then managing and integratinginformation and technologies from different steps of the populationestimation process together. In most cases, data are entered intospreadsheet type software, and population computation is done in aninconsistent fashion. CensusView™ is the first system that integratesand computerizes all of the following population estimationmethodologies and procedures. Population estimation methods implementedinto current version of CensusView™ include

[0285] Quadrat Method

[0286] T-Square Method

[0287] Point Quarter Method

[0288] Transect Method

[0289] Geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems(GPS), and satellite imagery technologies are integrated into differentsteps of the methods used by CensusView™, making the entire process easyto learn, operate, manage, implement, and analyze results in the field.

[0290] C. Satellite Imagery Based On-Screen Population SurveyMethodology

[0291] When deploying personnel into critical areas is not feasible,CensusView™ can load commercially available satellite imagery into itsGIS framework, allowing users to demarcate dwellings and applyspatially-stratified sampling procedures with predefined estimates toascertain the overall population in a defined area. Results from this“On-Screen” Survey are achievable without the need for a field survey.The time consumption for the population assessment can be reduced from anumber of days or weeks to a few minutes. The system can help usersautomatically navigate through sampling locations for distancemeasurement automation, data input, and visualization. The systemcreates “roof-top accuracy” for associated distance measurements. Duringthe assessment process, the system draws reference lines to guide theuser to pick housing units, buildings or other structures based on theuser-selected population method.

[0292] For example, in the Point Quarter method, a user clicks on thenearest house in each quad (four clicks on the map). The systemautomatically computes the distances among the sampling point and surveypoints, and adds this information into the database. The option of “mapzoom” allows user to automatically zoom to selected sampling location.

[0293] See FIG. 17

[0294] For the T-Square method, only two survey points need to bedefined, and other procedures follow the same methodology as thePoint-Quarter method described above. The system draws a reference lineafter the first point is defined. Users use the reference lines to makesure that the angle among the sampling point, the first nearest house tothe sampling point, and the first nearest house to the first surveypoint is greater than 90 degree.

[0295] See FIG. 18

[0296] CensusView is the only system that integrates measurementprocedures, distance computations, sampling rules, and methods withhigh-resolution satellite imagery technology for population estimation.

[0297] Further details of CensusView are disclosed in FIG. 19.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of rapidly assessing population with aspatially-stratified random sample, the method comprising: creating asystematic grid on a study area, the systematic grid being defined by agiven number of target grid points so as to form grid cells; dividingeach one of the grid cells into a series of sub-grid cells, each one ofthe series of sub-grid cells being identified from left to right andfrom bottom to top within each one of the grid cells; identifying eachone of the sub-grid cells that intersect the study area; listing eachone of the sub-grid cells that intersect the study area, the list ofsub-grid cells being sequences in the same order as the grid cells andthe sub-grid cells; dividing the sub-grid list into a given number ofsections, each of the given number of sections being configured to havesubstantially equal numbers of sub-grid cells, and the given number ofsections being equal to the given number of targeted grid points; andselecting a random sub-grid cell from each section of sub-grid cells soas to obtain the spatially-stratified random sample.
 2. A methodaccording to claim 1 wherein the selected random sub-grid cell from eachsection of sub-grid cells is utilized so as to define random samplinglocations for population survey and computation.
 3. A method accordingto claim 2 wherein the random sampling locations for population surveyand computation maximizes the equality of possible spatial samplinglocation selection.
 4. A method according to claim 1 further comprisingthe step of providing an inner buffer polygon within an outer boundaryof the study area so as to avoid creating unusable sampling points.
 5. Amethod according to claim 1 further comprising the step of providing anexclusive area polygon to define an unwanted sampling area within thestudy area.
 6. A method according to claim 1 further comprising the stepof providing a cluster area polygon to define a separate frequencysampling from the study area so as to enable complex population clustersampling.
 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein the study area is apolygon.
 8. A method according to claim 7 wherein the study area polygonis formed using data entered by a user.
 9. A method according to claim 8wherein the data entered by the user is a list of coordinates.
 10. Amethod according to claim 8 wherein the data entered by the usercomprises entries made on a map by the user and further wherein the datacomprises digitization of the entries made on the map.
 11. A methodaccording to claim 7 wherein the study area polygon is formed usingcollected data.
 12. A method according to claim 1 wherein the steps areprogrammed in Java.
 13. A system for rapidly assessing population with aspatially-stratified random sample, the system comprising: a systematicgrid created on a study area, the systematic grid being defined by agiven number of target grid points so as to form grid cells; firstdivision means for dividing each one of the grid cells into a series ofsub-grid cells, each one of the series of sub-grid cells beingidentified from left to right and bottom to top within each one of thegrid cells; identification means for identifying each one of thesub-grid cells that intersect the study area; a list generator forlisting each one of the sub-grid cells that intersect the study area,the list of sub-grid cells being sequenced in order of the grid cellsand the sub-grid cells; second division means for dividing the sub-gridlist into a given number of sections, each of the given number ofsections being configured to have a substantially equal number ofsub-grid cells, and the given number of sections being equal to thegiven number of targeted grid points; and selection means for selectinga random sub-grid cell from each section of sub-grid cells so as toobtain the spatially-stratified random sample.
 14. A system according toclaim 13 further comprising an inner buffer polygon within an outerboundary of the study area so as to avoid creating unusable samplingpoints.
 15. A system according to claim 13 further comprising anexclusive area polygon for defining an unwanted sampling area within thestudy area.
 16. A system according to claim 13 further comprising acluster area polygon for defining a separate frequency sampling from thestudy area so as to enable complex population cluster sampling.
 17. Asystem according to claim 13 wherein the study area is a polygon.
 18. Asystem according to claim 17 wherein the study area polygon is formedusing data entered by a user.
 19. A system according to claim 18 whereinthe data entered by the user is a list of coordinates.
 20. A systemaccording to claim 18 wherein the data entered by the user comprisesentries made on a map by the user and further wherein the data comprisesdigitization of the entries made on the map.
 21. A system according toclaim 17 wherein the study area polygon is formed using collected data.22. A system according to claim 13 wherein the first division means, theidentification means, the list generator, the second division means, andthe selection means are programmed in Java.
 23. A method of rapidlyassessing a population, the method comprising: determining a boundary ofa study area; selecting a population estimation methodology for use onthe study area; assigning locations within the study area to field datacollectors; collecting data with the field data collectors; uploadingthe collected data to a computer; preparing a dynamic populationestimation/prediction using the computer; using the dynamic populationestimation/prediction to make resource analysis calculations andgeographic assignments; uploading the resource analysis calculations andgeographic assignments to the Internet for review by relieforganizations throughout the world; and distributing supplies based onthe uploaded resource analysis calculations and geographic assignments.24. A method according to claim 23 wherein the boundary of the studyarea is determined by a user entering data.
 25. A method according toclaim 23 wherein the boundary of the study area is determined bycollected data.
 26. A method according to claim 23 wherein thepopulation estimation methodology comprises at least one selected from agroup consisting of a quadrant method, a T-square method, a pointquarter method, and a transect method.
 27. A system for rapidlyassessing population, the system comprising: first determination meansfor determining a boundary of a study area having the population;selection means for selecting a population estimation methodology foruse on the study area; assignment means for assigning locations withinthe study area to field data collectors; collection means for collectingdata with the field data collectors; first transfer means fortransferring the collected data to a computer; second determinationmeans for determining a dynamic population estimation/prediction usingthe computer; third determination means for determining resourceanalysis calculations and geographic assignments based on the dynamicpopulation estimation/prediction; second transfer means for transferringthe resource analysis calculations and geographic assignments to theInternet for review by organizations throughout the world; anddistribution means for distributing supplies based on the resourceanalysis calculations and geographic assignments.
 28. A system accordingto claim 27 wherein the population estimation methodology comprises atleast one selected from a group consisting of a quadrant method, aT-square method, a point quarter method, and a transect method.
 29. Amethod of rapidly assessing population within a study area using anintegration of geographic information system (GIS), at least one ofsatellite imagery and aerial imagery, and a selected population method,the method comprising: loading the at least one satellite imagery andaerial imagery corresponding to the study area into the GIS; demarcatingdwellings on the satellite imagery loaded into the GIS; applying aspatially-stratified sampling procedure with a predefined estimate;simulating a distance measurement procedure based on the selectedpopulation estimation method on top of the at least one satelliteimagery and aerial imagery; guiding a user to determine mouse insertionpoints by display reference lines and points based on the selectedpopulation estimation method; computing distance measurements for theselected population estimation method from the mouse input points;prompting the user to enter other related information during theprocedure to increase productivity for distance measurements and datacollection; and ascertaining an overall population in the study areabased on the spatially-stratified sampling procedure.
 30. A methodaccording to claim 29 wherein the at least one satellite imagery andaerial imagery comprises high resolution imagery, and further comprisingthe step of increasing roof-top distance measurements.
 31. A methodaccording to claim 29 further comprising capabilities to use andintegrate historical data into population computation and prediction.32. A method according to claim 29 wherein the spatially-stratifiedsampling procedure comprises at least one selected from a groupconsisting of a quadrant method, a T-square method, a point squaremethod, and a transect method.
 33. A system for rapidly assessingpopulation within a study area, the system comprising: a geographicinformation system (GIS) on a computer; input means for inputtingsatellite imagery corresponding with the study area into the GIS;demarcation means for demarcating dwellings on the satellite imageryloaded into the GIS; application means for applying aspatially-stratified sampling procedure with a predefined estimate; andcomputation means for computing an overall population in the study areabased on the spatially-stratified sampling procedure.
 34. A systemaccording to claim 33 wherein the spatially-stratified samplingprocedure comprises at least one selected from a group consisting of aquadrant method, a T-square method, a point square method, and atransect method.
 35. A system according to claim 33 further comprisingintegration means for integrating geospatial web services for rapidpopulation estimation based on Open GIS Consortium (OGC) specifications.36. A system according to claim 33 further comprising integration meansfor integrating Open Geospatial Web services architecture into rapidpopulation estimation system development so as to enable the system toutilize world-wide geospatial information.
 37. A system according toclaim 33 further comprising population estimation computation across alloperating systems, using advanced Java algorithms.
 38. A systemaccording to claim 33 further comprising seamless integration means forintegrating multiple GPS platforms for rapid population estimation. 39.A system according to claim 38 wherein the multiple GPS platformscomprise at least one chosen from a group consisting of Garmin,Lowrance, Trimble.
 40. A method of rapidly assessing population within astudy area using a geographic information system (GIS), the methodcomprising: loading at least one from a group consisting of satelliteimagery and aerial imagery corresponding to the study area into the GIS;demarcating dwellings on the satellite imagery loaded into the GIS;applying a spatially-stratifies sampling procedure with a predefinedestimate; and ascertaining an overall population in the study area basedon the spatially-stratified sampling procedure.